Ballot This Fall–I-1114 Would Limit Governor’s Emergency Powers

A lot of attention has been focused in Referendum 90, which would require WA voters to approve or reject the controversial K-6 and beyond sex ed programs that were 'sneaked' through the State Legislature earlier this year. The Referendum gathered a state record 260,000 plus signatures for the ballot--over twice what was needed.

But there's another important Initiative being pushed for the ballot. I-1114 would significantly limit a WA Governor's emergency powers. The initiative was spearheaded by the group Restore Washington.  It's 65,000 members are business leaders, owners, workers and citizens who are seeking to restore the balance of power to voters in our state.

Part of the Initiative page reads as follows:

"For months now, through constant COVID-19 Emergency Proclamations, Governor Inslee has abused the powers We the People gave him in the existing Emergency Powers Act. He has refused to revoke Proclamations once the emergency it was based on has passed. He has changed the goals of his Proclamations, ensuring they can continue indefinitely. He has favored his preferred businesses over those he dislikes through his definitions of essential business. He has refused to call the Legislature into session so that all representatives have a voice in the state’s emergency response. He has hired thousands of new state inspectors, and sent them to harass businesses, and fine them out of existence. He has forbidden church worship. He has forbidden protest against his Proclamations, yet he has allowed and encouraged other protest. In all this, he has acted arbitrarily, and brooked no advice or dissent. Government by executive Proclamation is contrary to American values. "

The core of I-1114 would limit the duration of a Governor's emergency proclamations to 14 days, unless extended by an actual vote of the Legislature. The initiative would prevent extension by letters from state House-Senate leadership, as has happened this year. It would require a full in person vote by both branches. Also, no individual extension of any proclamation could exceed 14 days.

Several of Inslee's proclamations were extended by official letters sent by leaders of the House and Senate, with NO input by others or citizens.

And it adds a punitive clause. Any violation of these laws or mandates would considered a gross misdemeanor.

To many it is a shrewd political move. In the event that Inslee were to win a third term, IF I-1114 passes, it would be a significant roadblock to his political power, especially in times like these with COVID.

To find out more about I-1114, click on the button below.